Device for measuring seal gaps of vehicles

Abstract

A device for measuring a seal gap created between a moving part and a mounting part of a vehicle body includes a base member, a scale member and a retaining member. The scale member is mounted to the base member and is moveable between an extended position and a retracted measured position. An indicator is provided on the base member for reading the scale member. The retaining member is coupled to the base member and engages the scale member for retaining the scale member in both the extended and measured positions relative to the base member. The base member is installed in the seal gap and is removably connected to one of the vehicle body parts. The scale member is moved to the extended position. The moving part is then closed relative to the mounting part, and the other of the vehicle body parts engages the scale member and moves the scale member to the measured position. The indicator together with the scale member provides a dimension of the seal gap.

Description

BACKGROUND[0001]Exemplary embodiments herein generally relate to a device for measuring a seal gap of a vehicle. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a flange mount measuring device that conveniently and accurately measures a vehicle seal gap.[0002]Generally, a vehicle body is provided with various moving parts, for example, a trunk lid and a tailgate, as well as front and rear doors. The moving parts are mounted to fixed mounting parts of the vehicle body in such a way as to be openable and closeable. At the intersection between the two vehicle parts, gaps are inevitably formed between the moving parts and the fixed mounting parts of the vehicle body. Such gaps are generally referred to as seal gaps. The seal gaps provide the necessary clearance to prevent interference between the moving part and the mounting part. While a vehicle is driving, wind noise may be transmitted through the seal gaps into the vehicle. Moreover, when it rains, rainwater may flow through the...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes a device for measuring the gap between two parts of a vehicle body. The device includes a base member that is installed in the gap and a scale member that is connected to the base member and can be moved between an extended and measured position. The device also has an indicator for reading the scale member. The device can be easily installed and provides a convenient way to measure the gap between the two parts of the vehicle body.

Problems solved by technology

At the intersection between the two vehicle parts, gaps are inevitably formed between the moving parts and the fixed mounting parts of the vehicle body.

While a vehicle is driving, wind noise may be transmitted through the seal gaps into the vehicle.

Moreover, when it rains, rainwater may flow through the seal gaps into the vehicle.

In this case, the molded product may be deformed when it is removed, and thus it is difficult to measure precise dimensions.

When taking measurements with resin, the hardened piece may be difficult to remove from the seal gap as well.

Further, it takes an excessively long time to measure the seal gaps because the resin product must be hardened; whereas, the compressed lump of clay must be sliced slowly and carefully before measuring.

This slicing action can affect the measured value, reducing accuracy.

These devices require electronic data acquisition setup and sensor calibration prior to each use, which increases setup time.

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